Robert Dale Whitehorn

Robert (Bob) Whitehorn passed into the loving arms of the Lord on April 17, 2026. There is much sadness among his family and friends; however, we are joyful that his 30 years spent as a quadriplegic have been replaced with perfection of mind and body, incredible beauty, and incomprehensible love. He is no longer in constant pain, physically bound by a power-wheelchair, with limited ability to enjoy the simple things of life that others take for granted. Bob was born on May 18,1955 to Eldora and Floyd Whitehorn. His early years were spent in Sioux City, Iowa, later making the transition from “the city” to the rural setting of George, Iowa. Those who have gone before Bob include his parents (Eldora Viola Janssen and Floyd Leslie Whitehorn), half-brother (Bernard), and his grandparents.

Bob graduated from Central College (Pella, IA) and later he earned a master’s degree from Wayne State University (Detroit, MI). His love of computer programming led to his first job at the Burroughs World Headquarters. Bob was a loyal man and was employed by Burroughs/Unisys throughout his professional career. Following retirement, Bob built and maintained a fantasy baseball league website which took up much of each day, even choosing to miss Superbowl coverage in lieu of updating baseball stats for his website during draft season. Bob was a man of few words, being more of a listener than a talker. He loved to share his vast knowledge of many subjects, whether that was science, history, astronomy, politics, etc. Bob’s sarcastic humor was sprinkled throughout conversations. Bob tried to learn Spanish, achieving the ability to order a beer and find a bathroom. He watched endless reruns of Star Trek. The last digits of his phone number were “007" – a nod to his love of James Bond movies. Bob ate with gusto Ronda’s grilled brats boiled in beer with onions. Kerinsa’s apple pie. Justin’s grilled steaks.

Bob dearly loved his family, and he shared equal love for each of them. He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Ronda, their daughter Kerinsa (husband David, and children Olivia and Elizabeth), and their son Justin (wife Jessica, and children Fisher and Selah), plus fluffy pup, Andy. Ronda was fiercely protective of her “Prince Bob” during the 30 years as his caregiver. It was truly an honor for Ronda to serve the Lord by serving the needs of a man so grateful, so forgiving, and so respectful.

Initial arrangements have been made by Leaf Cremation (leafcremation.com). A “Celebration of Life,” open to friends and family, will be held at a later date. In memory of Bob, please “pass it forward” to someone else with an unexpected gesture of kindness… perhaps a compliment, a small gift, or words to express that you care.

Just days prior to his passing, his son Justin spoke to Bob following a nap. Justin inquired what his dad had been dreaming. Without skipping a beat, Bob answered “The Pearly Gates”. Bob knew where he was going - Heaven!